Israeli Independence Day Boat Parade Lands in Sunny Isles Beach
By Susan Simpson, Cultural & Human Services Director

The annual Israeli Independence Day Boat Parade made landfall in Sunny Isles Beach on Sunday, May 2, 2004.

With boat parade captain Arie Steiger at the helm, Mayor Norman Edelcup docked at an open lot along Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles Beach for a presentation to Miki Arbel, the Consul General to Israel of Florida and Puerto Rico. More than 15 boats followed behind.

The boat parade was an event to celebrate the 56th Anniversary of the founding of the modern Jewish State of Israel. It is held annually and has docked in other local municipalities in the past such as North Bay Village. Sunny Isles Beach was honored to be chosen as this year's landing site.

In a proclamation presented to Miki Arbel and Ilana Shahar, Director of Cultural Affairs for the Consulate General of Israel, Mayor Norman Edelcup proclaimed Sunday, May 2, 2004 as "State of Israel Day in the City of Sunny Isles Beach."

Commissioner Lewis Thaler presented Mayor Edelcup with a framed photograph of Netanya, Israel that he received during his visit in April. Sunny Isles Beach is in the process of twinning with Netanya through Sister Cities International. While visiting Israel, Commissioner Thaler had an opportunity to meet with Edna Spitzer, Manager of Incoming Tourism for Netanya. He presented her with a key to the city and she presented him with the photograph of Netanya. Plans are already underway to have a representative from Netanya participate in next year's boat parade.

 

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